In 2025, Veterans Affairs Canada and our partners are commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
Below is a list of events being held in Canada. Please check this web page regularly for more information.
Events in Ottawa
15 August 2025 – 11h00
Commemorative ceremony, National War Memorial
Ottawa, Ontario
Veterans Affairs Canada will host a ceremony at the National War Memorial commemorating the 80th anniversary of the official end of the Second World War.
16 August 2025 – 10h30
Wreath laying at the Hong Kong Veterans Memorial Wall – Hosted by the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association
Ottawa, Ontario
A commemorative wreath-laying ceremony will be held at the Hong Kong Memorial Wall to mark the 80th anniversary of the Defense of Hong Kong and the end of the Second World War. This annual ceremony is organized by the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association to honour Canadians who sailed to Hong Kong in 1941 to help defend it from the Japanese invasion.
Visit our public Calendar of Events to find commemorative events that may be happening in your area.
Events in Vancouver
15 August 2025 – 11h00
Commemorative ceremony at the Chinatown Memorial Monument– Hosted by ANAVETS
Vancouver, British Columbia
ANAVETS Pacific Unit #280 will host a ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in the Pacific.
17 August 2025 – 11h00
Kites for Peace
Sunset Beach
Vancouver, British Columbia
The Kites for Peace Festival is a public event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in the Pacific. The festival will combine kite-building workshops, educational talks, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities. The festival emphasizes peace, cultural understanding, and the role of kites as symbols of joy and freedom.
Visit our public Calendar of Events to find commemorative events that may be happening in your area.